Gary Langfield 
On August 22nd and 23rd, XL Film Fest showed top notch independent films that set new standards for filmmakers to meet. True Star was in the building and got the opportunity to watch two documentaries: Saving O’ Block and a narrative called A Boy Named Bobby.
Saving O’ Block, directed by Will Gates, informed us about the positive strides being made in Parkway Gardens and the surrounding community. The documentary allowed you to look into the mindset of four young men that live in O’ Block and have been involved with criminal activity. The men expressed the massive impact Pastor Corey Brooks has on not only their lives but the community. When asked what message he wanted to get across with the film, Gates said, “Even through all the adversities, never ever stop dreaming.” It’s specifically powerful because having dreams and opportunity is what’s going to save people from their circumstances.
Pastor Brooks, from New Beginning Church, is leading the change with his organization called Project H.O.O.D. They offer programs on violence prevention, workforce development, health and wellness, youth programming, and re-entry services. On 66th and King Drive, across the street from his church, Pastor Brooks is building a $50 million community center. In the panel discussion after the movie, Pastor Brooks said, “It’s about opportunity, it’s about transformation, it’s about commitment.”
A Boy Named Bobby is a film that also has a pastor that looks to help out, simply because it’s the right thing to do, but the main character is a boy named Bobby, played by Blake Cameron James.
James has been seen in the hit show “Welcome To Derry,” and it was dope to hear his involvement with the rapidly growing independent Chicago film scene.
The film follows a troubled kid who suffers inside of the foster care system, gets into legal trouble, and while everybody is eager to throw the book at him, a pastor takes him in and helps him through his turmoil. Recognized for its excellence, the movie earned the title of “Best Black Culture Film” during the World Film Festival in Cannes. It’s only fitting that the next step for this film would be at XL Fest in the newly built Obama Center. Seeing this film reminds you that Chicago is becoming the mecca for independent films and it’s truly exciting to watch it unfold.
The XL Fest weekend experience was a fun experience that didn’t stop with just the amazing films; it’s joined by an array of fun and interactive panels and workshops too. The films were fantastic and I loved the common themes of unity, solidarity and spreading love to those who need it. I can’t wait to see what next year’s XL Fest has to offer.
By Gary Langfield Jr.
@ima_menace21
